HCA: Hermit Crab Association

Hello, I'm hoping to adopt a few Ecuadorians after the new year but I wanted to know what people's experience with having live plants and insects in their tank so I can decide if I want them in my setup for when I'm ready to adopt.

I currently have a 29gal that I'm thinking of putting some frog moss, chia and maybe some leafy lettuce to grow inside it since they seem like low maintenance while also being food for the crabs. For the lettuce is it better to have it in its own pot or is it okay to put plant it on the substrate? For insects I was thinking some isopods and have been going back and forth on whether I want springtails. I plan to get the plants and insects going at least a month before I get any crabs but wanted to hear other peoples experiences before I get started on it. Does this seem like a good balance for a 29 gallon?

Sounds like a plan to me. I've got two 29's. There really isn't a whole lot of room in them once you add a decent depth of substrate. The only live plant I have going in mine is chia. I've never noticed my purple pinchers eat the seed or plant form of it, but it's there for them. lol

Springtails are pretty common in most households, so you may find they'll eventually make their way into the tank regardless.

As for the plant, you can plant it straight into the substrate, just be mindful if you moisten with saltwater, lettuce will definitely not like it!

Good to know, thanks!